Aviation — from airline or commercial pilots to flight instructors — is a great career option for many people. And if you’re thinking it might be the right fit for you, the question to answer is: how do I begin? Below, we have some tips on how to start flight school, so you can take those first steps on your new career path!
Learn more about the job
Before you dive right in and enroll in an aviation program, you’ll first want to make sure that what you’ll be getting trained in is right for you — you don’t want to invest in a new career that doesn’t end up being a good fit! Do you enjoy managing the types of equipment you’ll find in a plane (whether that be in a small private plane or a major airline)? Will the schedule work with your lifestyle? Do the expected salaries of your potential job prospects match your financial goals? Ask questions about the career, and about what you want for yourself, so you can be sure everything is aligned.
Research flight schools
Once you know you’re on the right path, you’ll want to get the best possible training for it. Find all the aviation training programs in your area and examine each one to determine which ones are the top options. Read online reviews, compare course descriptions, and talk to instructors or administrators if possible. It’s also a good idea to check if they have relationships with airlines or other career assistance available for students. This way, you can be confident you’re getting the most out of your tuition dollars.
Decide how to pay for it
While it can definitely be a good idea to pay upfront in full if possible, that’s not always possible for everyone. If you find that it’s better for you to break up payments instead, check to see what alternative payment options are available for your program. You might be able to pay with a loan or a payment plan — and there may even be grant, scholarship, or employer reimbursement opportunities!
Get excited for the new chapter in your life
Learning a new skill and embarking on a career path can be nerve-wracking, but also exciting! Whether you’re starting your first career or making a switch from a different industry, now’s the time to enjoy the next steps you’re taking and to look forward to what’s ahead.
